Otters are known for their adorable faces and playful nature, but they are also famously shy, making it rare to see one up close. That’s why the bond between a man named Billy Mail and a wild otter on Scotland’s Shetland Islands has captured so many hearts. This incredible story is now featured in an award-winning documentary produced by Emmy and BAFTA winner Jeff Wilson.
More info: National Geographic
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How It All Began
Billy Mail, 57, and his wife Susan moved back to the Shetland Islands, where Billy grew up. Soon after, Billy faced tough times—he lost both of his parents and had to deal with the challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic. But everything changed in March 2021.
One day, Billy noticed a baby otter diving near his home. Curious, he left fish out for the little animal, but something felt unusual. Wild otters are usually afraid of humans, yet this one, later named Molly, didn’t run away.
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“She looked me right in the eye and then went back to eating,” Billy said. He later learned that Molly’s mother had been killed in a road accident, leaving her an orphan.
Nursing Molly Back to Health
With permission from a local wildlife sanctuary, Billy and Susan began feeding Molly and helping her regain her strength. The otter quickly became a big part of their lives. Even their rescue dog, Jade, bonded with Molly.
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“She was the perfect distraction during a really hard time,” Billy shared. Although Susan was initially nervous about caring for a wild animal, the experience brought the couple so much joy.
Molly’s playful personality shone as she grew. She would follow Billy around when he worked outside and even recognized the couple’s voices.
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Letting Molly Go Back to Nature
Despite their bond, Billy and Susan knew Molly belonged in the wild. When winter approached, Billy stopped feeding her to encourage her to hunt on her own. Molly’s visits became less frequent and eventually stopped altogether.
The couple worried about her safety during the harsh winter. But in 2022, Molly returned—and she wasn’t alone.
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“She came back, healthy and thriving, and she was pregnant!” Billy said. Molly had found her own family but still remembered the couple who had helped her. Now, Molly and her babies occasionally visit Billy and Susan’s garden.
“It was amazing to see her complete her circle of life,” Billy shared.
A Story That Touched the World
Wildlife filmmaker Charlie Hamilton James learned about the special bond between Billy and Molly and immediately knew it was a story worth telling. The resulting documentary took over a year to film. It has already won an award at Bristol’s Wildscreen Festival and is nominated for a prestigious Critics Choice Documentary Award in the U.S.
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Billy and Susan feel honored to have their story shared with the world. For them, helping Molly was more than just rescuing a wild animal—it was a journey of healing and hope.
This touching tale of friendship between a man and an otter shows the beauty of nature and the power of compassion.
